Official: Eckersley joins Red Bulls from Toronto

The New York Red Bulls have acquired Richard Eckersley from Toronto FC in exchange for a 2017 fourth round pick. He will be added to the roster pending approval of his P-1 Visa and physical.

“We were impressed with Richard’s play at Toronto FC and are delighted to acquire him. He has a good soccer brain and is an energetic defender who can also provide positive attacking qualities on the flanks,” said Red Bulls Sporting Director Andy Roxburgh. “Richard will immediately provide another solid and versatile option for us on our backline and will certainly compete for a starting role on our team.”

EOS reported the details of his arrival on Sunday. The Red Bulls will be paying a portion of his contract, likely in the $100-150k range, while Toronto absorbs the lions share of his pay which sources have reported to be up to $450k. Some Canadian reports have even put the number as high as about $500k.

Eckersley, 24, is a right fullback who will challenge Japanese defender Kosuke Kimura for minutes in New York. He has been a starter in Toronto over the past several years, mainly featuring on the right but also contributing on the left flank and centerback. His versatility makes him invaluable for New York who are set to take part in regular season, Open Cup and CONCACAF Champions League play.

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As a TFC supporter I am so happy to get rid of this guy…overpriced, & overrated….not sure how another team in the league would take a chance on him unless they are looking for a decent backup and of course Toronto must have paid most of his salary. Be prepared to be let down Red Bulls fans…you will understand soon enough why I say this…very frustrating player..not quite MLS caliber…afterall he was playing for Toronto which the last few years has not been anywhere near an “MLS level” team.

Tony

I agree, as a red bulls fan I am disappointed with this signing especially knowing that he’ll be gone next year with his price tag.

Canary

“He has a good soccer brain…” Well I agree he does have a brain. Maybe.